Uganda Red Cross Launches 'Humanity Needs You' Campaign to Mark 60-Year Anniversary
Frank Semata 
The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has launched a six-month campaign titled ‘Humanity Needs You’ in commemoration of its 60-year anniversary.
The campaign, unveiled at URCS headquarters in Lubaga, aims to bolster membership, promote blood donation, enhance road safety education, and provide first aid training, particularly in schools.
Speaking at the launch, URCS Secretary General Robert Kwesiga emphasized the campaign's multifaceted approach and its mission to serve humanity.
“URCS has been at the forefront of saving lives, building resilient communities, and promoting human dignity. We call upon every Ugandan to join us in this noble mission,” Kwesiga urged.
Kwesiga highlighted the importance of community involvement and support in diverse forms. “The corporate sector can contribute financially or volunteer their time and skills. The youth can donate blood, join our mobilization activities, champion climate change initiatives, or engage in community service,” he said.
A significant feature of the campaign will be the launch of a Red Cross humanitarian fund. This fund, managed by a reputable international trust and subject to audits for accountability, aims to ensure URCS’s self-sustainability amid declining external sponsorship. Donations will be accepted via MTN mobile money and other channels to be announced.
Kwesiga underscored the necessity of local support, citing global economic challenges that impact international aid.
“Big economies are also having problems in their own backyards, such as the wars in Ukraine and Palestine. It’s well advised to set up the humanitarian fund largely financed by Ugandans so that we don’t have to cry every now and then as an emergency comes in.”
The climax of the campaign will feature a comprehensive publication detailing URCS’s activities and accomplishments over the years, reinforcing the Society’s enduring commitment to humanitarian service.
